GIBSON CO., IN (WFIE) -
This Saturday is I-69 Community Day in Gibson County.
After months of construction and years of planning, the roadway is expected to open by the end of the year.
Crews have described the I-69 construction as the longest, continuous running project at this time in the nation.
Now, as we approach the completion of part of I-69, you can also make history by celebrating on the interstate before it officially opens.
In just a few months, vehicles will be driving along the I-69 section from Evansville to Crane, but before that, it will be host to a major street festival.
"It's not often that something of this scope and size is open in our area. They can look back and say, Yes, I was on I-69 for a big celebration before it ever opened. It has some historical significance," said Karen Thompson, the Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce.
This Saturday, part of I-69 will be full of classic cars, antique tractors, skateboards, and adult size tricycles.
"We wanted to come up with activities you could do on I-69 that you probably wouldn't have the opportunity to do again, especially once the interstate is open," said Eric Heidenreich, the Executive Director of Gibson County Visitor's and Tourism Bureau.
In Gibson County, the events kick off at 11 a.m. with an opening ceremony. There will also be plenty of kid's activities, food, drinks and music.
"We are going to have a lot of activities, a lot of food, a lot of fun. It's just a day to come out relax, celebrate and see a little piece of history," Thompson said.
An interesting fact and one of INDOT's proudest achievements is that the bridge over the Patoka Wildlife Area spans 200 feet more than the Golden Gate Bridge.
Once open at the end of this year, sections one two and three will open 67 miles of interstate. A portion of each has been dedicated to Gibson, Pike, Daviess and the Town of Odon for Saturday's Community Days.
You don't have to be a resident of those communities to participate.
"We're hoping people from all over the area will come out and participate," Heidenreich said.
The event is free to the public, but INDOT is encouraging participants to donate canned food items.
Local law enforcement will be on hand directing traffic and letting you know where to park.
In Gibson County, the southbound lane of I-69 at State Road 64 will be used.
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